The small town of Oughterard is located on the banks of the picturesque Owenriff River in County Galway in western Ireland. It is also by the shores of the stunning Lough Corrib which means that beautiful expanses of water surround this town, making it a wonderful choice in which to stay for a relaxed cottage break in
County Galway. The population of Oughterard is only about 1,300 people, but this means that it retains a friendly community feel, where people know and recognise each other, and smiles are found all around. Surrounded by farmlands and fields, there is also plenty of countryside on offer should you opt for a rural retreat stay near to Oughterard.
What Oughterard, Galway offers for Self-Catering Holidays
There are several interesting attractions to visit in Oughterard whilst on a cottage holiday, and one of these is the remains of Aughnanure Castle which has been wonderfully well-maintained as a great example of an Irish tower house. Built in the 16th century, this castle features spectacular rooms such as a grand banqueting hall and a fascinating watchtower. A trip to Aughnanure is brilliant for the whole family to soak up a bit of interesting Irish history.
There is also an abandoned mine called Glengowla Mine just outside of Oughterard which has not been used since 1865 and makes for a wonderful and eerie day out. The mine is known for its extremely rare, but beautiful, quartz and fluorite crystals and is unique in that it is the only show mine in Ireland.
Nestled close to the Connemara mountain range, Oughterard also offers plenty of walking and hiking opportunities to enjoy whilst on a self-catering break. Soak up the spectacular scenery, and from the summit of these mountains take in sweeping and panoramic views of the lake, river and village below. The town is also home to several bars and pubs, with kindly locals and delicious traditional food, and lots of independent shops as well as convenience stores for those essentials needed for your cottage holiday.
Oughterard has its own charm, and if you enjoy being near water but not necessarily the sea then it may just be the perfect place for you and your loved ones to escape to on a break in western Ireland. Lakes, mountains, rivers and village life all add up to make Oughterard a lovely Irish town. What’s more, with some unique attractions nearby, this town has plenty to recommend it for family self-catering holidays and romantic breaks. Those travelling with pets may need to find
dog-friendly cottages whereas if you are travelling with a loved one we recommend that you take a look at
romantic cottages. However you choose to spend your time in Ougherard, we trust that you’ll have the best of times in this special area of Ireland.
Whether you choose to book a holiday cottage in Oughterard, an apartment, a lodge or another type of self-catering holiday accommodation, we hope you have your best holiday yet in Galway.
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